“Nikos Samaras” Award

In recognition of his long-standing and invaluable contribution to the world of sports, the Organizing Committee presents this year’s ‘Nikos Samaras’ Honorary Award to Thanasis Pragalos. This award stands as a token of deep appreciation and gratitude for his overall contribution to the growth, progress, and strengthening of the athletic movement, and specifically for his significant and multifaceted work in the field of sports administration.

Thanasis Pragalos is a prominent and highly respected figure in both Greek and international sports, characterized by years of active presence and a decisive role in shaping and evolving Taekwondo at European and global levels. For over 25 years, he has served the institution with consistency, vision, and dedication, holding the position of President of the European Taekwondo Union (ETU), while also serving as Vice President of World Taekwondo.

The presentation of the ‘Nikos Samaras’ award to Thanasis Pragalos serves as a profound acknowledgment of his multifaceted and enduring contribution. It honors a man who has dedicated his life to the service of athletics, contributing decisively to its empowerment and international acclaim.

The “Nikos Samaras” award has been established in honor of the unforgettable volleyball player who unexpectedly passed away in 2013. It is presented annually as part of the International Congress on Physical Education & Sports, recognizing the contributions of significant individuals to the field of sports.

Nikos Samaras, hailing from Orestiada and an alumnus of the Physical Education and Sports Science Department of the Democritus University of Thrace, remains one of the most prominent names in Greek volleyball and an enduring athletic symbol despite his premature departure.

Recipients of the “Nikos Samaras” award have included distinguished figures such as Olympic triple jump champion Pigi Devetzi, marathon runner Ioannis Tsianos, Paralympic swimmer Demosthenes Michalentzakis, the ambassador of “exercise is medicine,” Ada Stamatatou and Olympic rings champion Demosthenes Tabakos.